Recently, I read a short story called "Todd" written by Etgar Keret. I was pleasantly surprised by its lack of strange circumstances, which usually comprise a short story by this author. The story describes a conversation between Keret and his single friend Todd, who wants Keret to write a story that will make women want to sleep with him. The majority of the plot characterizes how Keret tries many times, but fails to create such a story. However, a strange yet pleasant twist occurs at the end when the reader realizes that the story "Todd" the story that Keret's character tried to write.
This short story gave me an insight to Israeli humor. Although it is subtle, a little goes a long way. The use of clever word tricks and dark ironic statements brings to life the Israeli humor. Honestly, I was surprised that the story did not contain more dark humor, which is evident in many of Keret's stories. "Todd" did however take place in Israel, which was a nice touch to a cute story.
While reading Keret's stories I came across a lot of dark humor. I think that even though Keret writes a lot of really weird things, that there is a deeper meaning to all of his stories. I think that his books are a really good way for people, Jewish or not, to connect with Israeli culture and humor.
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